Medicine Buddha

He has the hand posture of an Akshobya Buddha, but in addition holds a healing or herb pot in his left hand. In Buddhism, he stands for healing all illnesses – including those of ignorance. Mental poisons cause a restless mind in human beings – which in turn leads to physical and mental suffering.

"Buddha" is not a surname, as one might think, but an honorary title that is only bestowed upon individuals who have achieved salvation through their own insight. The man who is usually referred to by this title is a historical figure. He probably lived between the 6th and 5th centuries BCE in northern India and was called Siddhartha Gautama before his enlightenment. The teachings he revealed (Dharma), which have undergone various developments over the centuries, and the monastic order he founded are still alive today through the active work of Tibetan lamas here in the West.

Brass, gold, antique green H: 31 cm, 5.3 kg